Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. October 7, 14, 21, 28, Nov 4, 11, 18, 25, Dec 2, 9(10 weeks).
EB $295/Reg $310
Please note: Students supply the materials for their course- see Supplies List below description:
This is a great class for students with a bit of painting experience interested in discovering more about acrylic painting. Working at their own pace, students will explore the use of acrylic paints, brushes and acrylic mediums while they develop and improve their painting techniques and learn to paint in their own style, whether it be landscape, fantasy or abstract.
Supplies list:
Paint:
Preferred list of colours:
Brushes:
Canvases:
Other materials:
Mondays, 7 - 9 pm. October 27, November 3, 10, 17, 24, December 1 (6 weeks)
Adv $175/Reg $185
If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at an age-old practice of drawing portraiture, this course is the perfect choice for you. Over six weeks, we will be learning how to simplify and understand the human face, as well as practicing tips and tricks make your portraits stand out. While this class will have an emphasis on self-portraiture and working from life, we will also have chances to work from photograph. Whether you want to learn realism, or develop your own style, this class will nurture your creativity and have you creating portraits you love.
Supply List:
A drawing pad (9x12 or similar size, with approx. 24 sheets)
A set of drawing pencils (At least four pencils: HB, 3B, 2H, B – the set should read similar to these, but they don’t need to be exactly that)
Eraser
Pencil sharpener
Fridays 7 - 9 pm. October 31, November 7, 14, 21, 28, December 5 (6 weeks).
EB $175/Reg $185
Are you an animal lover who'd love to learn more about how to draw some of your favourite creatures? This class will dive into drawing animals, and how to draw them in a way that fits your style. Learn how to break down animals into simplified forms, draw fur and scales, and bring life to the animals you love the most. This class is welcoming of beginners or more intermediate drawers.
Materials List:
Saturdays, 10 am – 12 pm. November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, December 6 (6 weeks).
In this course, we'll journey into nature's Fall beauty as we explore the techniques and nuances of painting with watercolour. Through regular visits to local parks and nature areas, we'll capture our own source images via camera, and then take them back to the studio for inspiration and reference. Through the practices, you'll learn to harness the transformative power of watercolour as we delve into representing the breathtaking landscapes and scenes that surround us. Through a series of hands-on demonstrations and exercises, you'll master essential watercolour techniques and washes, honing your skills with each brushstroke. This course is about more than just experiencing the medium – it's about developing a keen eye and a deeper understanding of colour, light, and shadow. By observing and capturing the subtle gradations of natural light, you'll enhance your sight skills, laying a strong foundation for your journey as a visual artist. Dig into the world of color observation as we explore the darkness, brightness, warmth, and coolness of diverse tonal values found in the ever-changing light of daylight. Through thoughtful analysis and practice, you'll learn to discern and replicate these tonal variations, refining your ability to capture the essence of your surroundings on paper. Join me on this artistic adventure as we blend creativity with the beauty of the natural world. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist seeking inspiration, this course offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and unleash your creativity.
Supplies:
1- Cotman Watercolour set
2- Mixed head type and sizes watercolour paint brush; Flat, round, and fine
3- Watercolour Paper block. About 8 x 10 inches or any similar sizes
4- Small water container
5- Rag or paper towel
6- Small size drawing board
7- Camera for reference shots (phone is fine!)
Tuesdays, 1 - 3 pm. November 4, 11, 18, 25, December 2, 9 (6 weeks)
Join us for an inspiring series of odourless oil painting classes. These relaxed sessions are designed to nurture your own unique style rather than follow step -by-step instruction. The instructor will be on hand offering guidance, answer questions, mix difficult shades of colour and bring her own supply of paints to add to your own suggested paints mentioned in the supplies list.
Small bottle Turpenoid (unscented Turpentine)
Palette Pad (9” x 12” disposable sheets)
Canvas (Dollar Store) – you choose your size (8x10 and larger), 2 at least
Paints: 37 mL size – “Winton” brand:
Required
Titanium White
French Ultramarine Blue
Cadmium Red
Cadmium Yellow
Cerulean Blue
Raw umber
Yellow Ochre
Alizarin Crimson
Brushes
Baby wipes, baby food jar, small rags, apron
Tuesdays, 7 - 9 pm. November 4, 11, 18, 25, December 2, 9 (6 weeks)
Please note: Students supply the basic materials for their course.
see Supplies List below description:
New students learn the basic approaches to Soft Pastel Art and returning students explore more advance techniques. This combined intro/intermediate course covers the material side of Soft Pastels, related art materials and techniques for students new to the medium and those looking to deepen their current knowledge. Pastel artwork is considered a drawing medium but it's versatility allows painterly effects to be developed. Drawing skill is an asset but not required. Several methods of Pastel application will be explored resulting in the completion of 3 to 4 landscape works of art.
Pastel Pencils are useful but a set of Pastel sticks is required
****Please note that the Pastels in this course are NOT Oil Pastels ... Only Soft, Dry Pastels are used in these sessions
Wednesdays, 1- 3 pm. November 5, 12, 19, 26, December 3, 10 (6 weeks)
Learn the basics of painting traditional landscapes with watercolours. Extend your painting techniques using black ink and dry media with watercolours and explore a path towards self expression with gestural painting.
Watercolour Explorations Supply List – Fall 2025
Lesson 1-6 you will need basic watercolour painting supplies.
Lesson 3 we will use masking fluid (misket or frisket) and wax crayons.
Lesson 4 We will use black india ink or indelible ink to draw and paint with watercolours
Lessons 5 & 6 Bring mixed media such as watercolour pencils or crayons, pastels, pencil crayons.
Lesson 6 we will be collaging, using white pva glue or acryic matt medium
Watercolour Paints
Start by using brand name "academic" or "student" grade watercolours until you can commit your resources to buying "artist" grade paints. Pre-packaged sets may be more economical. Watercolour tubes are preferred but pans can be used. If you already have watercolour paints, bring them and try them out. You can always add to your supplies later. If you are buying individual paint colours, at a minimum buy one cool blue, one cool red and one clear yellow. My favourite brands are Daniel Smith and QOR. Cotman by Winsor Newton is a good quality student brand. Primary blue such as cobalt and/or ultramarine blue, primary red such as permanent rose or alizaren crimson, primary yellow such as aureolin yellow, lemon yellow or cadmium yellow. You may wish to add the following colours to your palette: Rawsienna, Sap Green, Burnt Sienna or pick your favourite colours to try.
Watercolour Brushes
At a minimum you will need one flat and one medium sized round watercolour brush.
1/2”, 1” flat synthetic brushes, the longer bristled brushes are preferred. I suggest Size 4, 8, 12 round synthetic watercolour brushes. Optional brushes to add later: Rigger brush, size 1 round for fine lines, fan brush, wash brush for large areas.
Watercolour Paper
140 pound cold press watercolour paper is recommended. Strathmore 300 series or other brands are suitable. The high rag content will tolerate scrubbing and washing. Full sheets 22"x30"can be bought and cut as required. For the lessons you will need two pieces of paper roughly 8x10 size (or 1/8 sheet) per class. I use a steel edged ruler for cutting sheets.
Palette
You need something to mix your paints on. A white plastic plate will work but you will need to wash your paints off after each use. You can buy a round or rectangular palette with lid to transport and reuse your paints. Avoid coloured, paper or Styrofoam plates.
Backboard
A hard surface waterproof board to place your paper on when painting. This will be propped upon a slight angle. A corrugated plastic core sign board slightly bigger than your paper is light weight and reasonably priced. A plain white colour is best.
Water containers & cleanup
Bring 2 old margarine tubs or containers to hold clean water. Tissues, paper towels or rags are needed to catch puddles, lift paint and for clean up. I use a medium spray water spray bottle as a tool for applying water to paper. Mine was from Dollarama.
A sketch pad and pencil will be useful for planning your painting and taking notes. You are welcome to bring a camera to take photos of my demos.
Wednesdays, 1 - 3 pm. November 5, 12, 19, 26, December 3, 10 (6 weeks).
Adv $175/Reg $185 + $15 materials fee
Learn the basics of machine-sewing from loading a bobbin to trouble- shooting a jammed machine! Participants will make a customized tote bag and a bonus project (or two) if time allows. No experience is necessary.
Please note: The instructor has a severe allergy to chamomile. It is a common additive to many perfumes and scented products. Please treat this as a scent free class.
Wednesday, 7 - 9 pm. November 5, 12, 19, 26, December 3, 10 (6 weeks).
Our lives are full of many experiences, many stories. Have you ever dreamt of sharing these with others in a memoir?
Join us for our 6 week Memory to Memoir Writing course where we’ll explore how you can turn your personal story into a well crafted memoir. In a safe and supportive environment we’ll look at a variety of topics, ranging from memoir vs autobiography, to navigating sensitive subjects, to the importance of theme, to creating images in writing, and everything in between.
Each week participants will be encouraged to try their hand at small exercises to help them develop their own “writing muscles” and unique style.
Please bring pen, paper, laptop, whatever your preference for writing.
Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm. November 5, 12, 19, 26, December 3, 10 (6 weeks)
Elevate your oil painting skills to new heights in our Intermediate Level Course, where we'll delve into mastering the technique of creating texture through analyzing a source image and the layering process.
In this immersive journey into the world of oil painting, you will explore the intricacies of analyzing source images, establishing a harmonious palette, and mastering the art of layering. Guided by an experienced instructor, you'll learn how to transform your visions into stunning works of art, infused with depth, dimension, and vibrant color.
Throughout the course, you'll explore the transformative power of layering, discovering how to apply multiple layers of oil paint to create dynamic compositions that captivate the imagination. From subtle shifts in tone and texture to bold contrasts of light and shadow, you'll learn how to breathe life into your artwork with each carefully crafted layer.
But mastering oil painting isn't just about technique – it's about understanding the nuances of color mixing and composition, and how to use them to convey emotion and narrative in your work. Through a series of hands-on exercises and demonstrations, you'll gain the confidence to experiment with color and form, pushing the boundaries of your creativity with each stroke of the brush.
Whether you're a seasoned artist looking to refine your skills or a passionate learner eager to take your art to the next level, this course offers something for everyone. Join me and unlock the secrets of oil painting mastery, as you discover the joy of bringing your artistic visions to life on canvas.
Supply List
Oil Paints: 37ml tubes of Winton Oil Colour:
Ivory Black
Burnt Sienna
Viridian Hue
Permanent green light
Phthalo Blue
French Ultramarine
Cadmium Red Deep Hue
Cadmium Yellow Pale Hue
Paint brushes:
Flat brushes, #1, 4, 8, and 12.
Palette Cup
Medium:
Linseed oil
Turpentine
Canvas or Painting Surface:
Stretched Canvas, 11” x 14”
Canva-Paper; an economical alternative to canvas
Rags or Paper Towels: These are essential for wiping brushes, cleaning up spills, and creating texture in the paint.
Palette Sealable Container: Useful for storing and preserving leftover paint for future use.
Brush Cleaner: A gentle brush cleaner is needed for cleaning brushes after painting.
Sketching Materials: Pencils, charcoal, or other sketching materials are useful for planning and sketching out the composition before applying paint.
Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm. November 5, 12, 19, December 3, 10, 17 (6 weeks)
Learn the art of capturing the fluid beauty of water using watercolour techniques. This class will explore how to depict reflections, ripples, transparency, and movement in lakes, oceans, rivers, and more to bring water scenes to life with clarity and emotion.
Supplies List:
Watercolour paper (140 lb or higher)
A Board to fix the paper on
Masking tape for fixing paper on board
Pencil, Eraser for sketching
Watercolour paint brushes – 1 round brush (medium), 1 round (fine tip), 1 flat brush
Roll of paper towels or cotton rags
Container of water
Masking Fluid/Frisket
Salt (Table salt/sea salt/rock salt - any salt)
Watercolour paints, colours should include:
A warm red (Cadmium/Pyrrole Red)
A cool red (Alizarin Crimson, opera pink)
A cool yellow (Cadmium Yellow Light/Lemon Yellow)
A warm yellow (Nickel Azo Yellow/Cadmium Yellow Deep)
A warm blue (Ultramarine Blue, Cobalt Blue)
A cool blue (Phthalo Blue)
Payne's Grey/ Neutral tint
White gouache or white watercolours
Wednesdays, 7 - 9 pm. November 5, 12, 19, 26, December 3, 10 (6 weeks).
Thursdays, 1 - 3 pm. November 6, 13, 20, 27, December 4, 11 (6 weeks).
EB $185, Reg $200 + $25 materials
In this 6-week course, learn to make various functional and decorative pottery forms using slab, pinch pot, and sculpting techniques. You will also learn about surface decoration- carving, adding elements, and glazing.
Please note: Students supply the basic materials for their course (see Supplies List below description).
The abstract language follows a tradition of invention and Interpretation.
The course objective is to develop the concept of abstraction from source materials.
Soft pastel’s tactile nature and basic supply / material requirements are an ideal entry into the journey of exploring abstraction.
Initial colour studies from thumbnail sketches will progress in stages to the completion of larger works. This process, based on utilizing the Principles and Elements of Art is transferable to other mediums.
You will receive a 4 pg outline detailing How to Abstract, The Principles and Elements of Art, Composition Strategies, Ideas on Colour Studies in addition to Creating Larger Work and Self Critiquing.
Supply List Required
Recommended Brands: sold in sets or individual sticks:
Textured pastel paper is required.
Some brands are available in smaller sized loose sheet or multi colour pads of 10 sheets which are very useful.
*Quality Soft Pastels and Textured pastel surfaces are available at Wyndham Art Supply in Guelph or online.
If you own any artist grade dry (soft) Pastels they will be appropriate for use.
Thursdays, 7 - 9 pm. November 6, 13, 20, 27, December 4, 11 (6 weeks).
Adv $175/Reg $185 + $30 materials fee
As the days shorten and the mornings become more crisp, let’s create an evocative scene celebrating snow, trees and sky. We’ll use the wet felting and needle felting techniques to depict in wool a classic winter picture. All the required tools and materials will be supplied to you. Demonstration and direct instruction will allow you to create a felting that is ready for framing or to incorporate in a wall hanging. You will learn to embellish your scene with textiles, hand stitching and beading to add layers and depth. No prior experience is required. Experienced artists, artisans and returning students will be able to bring their skill set and experience to the scene as well.
All materials provided.
Saturdays, 10 am to noon. November 8, 15, 22, 29, December 6, 13 (6 weeks).
Always loved a good short story? Then why not come and learn how to write one in a friendly and supportive environment? In the course, we will look at the core elements of a short story and cover all aspects of writing one, including how to generate story ideas, develop strong characters and create a plot that will keep your readers glued to the page.
Students are asked to bring their own writing materials, whether electronic or pen and paper.
Mondays 7 - 9 pm. November 10, 17, 24, December 1, 8, 15 (6 weeks)
Over six weeks, this course will develop your abilities at storytelling through a self- initiated concept, to your final project. We will look at technical elements, such as lighting, composition of not just a single image but the story as a whole, exposure, final presentation, as well as non-photographic factors that build a successful narrative; this will include topics such as social interpretation/ communication of your subject, photographer/subject relationships. An in-class presentation, with a brief introduction, will be given by each student on the final evening.
Mondays, 7 - 9 pm. November 10, 17, 24, December 1, 8, 15 (6 weeks).
Watercolour- Beginner
Explore the gratifying process of watercolour in this beginner’s course. Learn to mix colours, use various brush techniques, find out about paper, and through repetition will gain confidence working with this medium. No previous experience is necessary.
Materials List
Winsor Newton Cotman Sketchers Box 12 colours
Watercolor brushes round #12 or #10, and #6, are all you will need. Taklon is a good synthetic. Sables are great. All brushes should bounce back to a point or their original shape. Wet them to find out. If they lie flat, not worth the trouble.
A palette (not plastic), ceramic is good, a white dinner plate will work
Paper: pad of Strathmore Watercolour 300 or 400 series or other 140 lb or 300gm hot press wc paper made by Fabriano, Arches, BFK, or Johannot
For clean up and brush control, rags or a sponge are best as a means to control the amount of water in your brush. With a plastic bag for carrying
2 Yogurt containers for water
A fine spray mister (sprayer)
A pencil
Tuesdays 7 - 9 pm. November 11, 18, 25, December 2, 9 (5 weeks).
Adv $145/Reg $155 + $15 materials fee
Learn the next steps in sewing; making buttonholes and inserting zippers! Participants will learn these skills by creating a small, zippered messenger bag. MUST HAVE MACHINE SEWING EXPERIENCE.
Thursdays 1 - 3 pm. November 13, 20, 27, December 4, 11 (5 weeks).
Tuesdays, 1 - 3 pm. November 18, 25, December 2, 9 (4 weeks).
EB $115/Reg $125
Please note: Students supply the materials for their course- see Supplies List below description
This is a great class for students with painting experience interested in guidance around areas they may be stuck. Working at their own pace, students will explore the use of paint, brushes and different techniques while they develop and improve their skills and learn to paint in their own style. Terry will be available for individual assistance to help participants with questions on any of the painting mediums regarding technique, use of the medium, colour theory etc.
- Painting project you are working on (any type of paint and surface)- not a beginner class.
- paint of choice
- brushes of choice
- vessel for water
IVISIT the BUTTON FACTORY ARTS HOMEPAGE
LOCATION: 25 Regina Street South
Waterloo ON N2L1R8
SUMMER HOURS:
Tuesday to Friday 10 to 7
Saturday 10 to 5
Closed Sunday
CONTACT US:
519-886-4577
Membership and rentals:
operations@buttonfactoryarts.ca
Program inquiries:
programs@buttonfactoryarts.ca
